Growing Pains in Legs
Growing pains in the legs are joint in children and can be treated in various ways. Massage, heating pads, and ibuprofen can ease the discomfort. Stretching can also be beneficial if the pains are severe and happen frequently. Dr. Rawlings offers several ways to treat growing pains.
Restless leg syndrome
Growing pains and restless leg syndrome are often the same, but the symptoms are not always the same. RLS can be caused by several medical conditions and genetic risk factors. Restless leg syndrome causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs that worsen with inactivity. While restless leg syndrome is often a temporary problem, the symptoms can be long-term, so it is essential to seek medical attention when symptoms persist.
Some RLS treatments can relieve symptoms and help people sleep better. These treatments include using hot or cold compresses, calf stretching exercises, and ergonomic measures like aisle seats. Certain medications can also help relieve restless leg syndrome. The use of non-drug approaches is essential, especially for older people. In addition to these treatments, lifestyle changes can help alleviate the symptoms.
Sever's disease
Growing pains in the legs due to Sever's disease are common in children and can be treated. The condition usually goes away with time and rest. However, symptoms may worsen if the child persists in playing through the pain or does not receive proper treatment. A doctor can perform an x-ray to rule out other causes. Afterward, the child can resume normal activities.
The symptoms of Sever's disease typically go away on their own within six months. However, they may be persistent and come and go for years. If your child is experiencing this type of pain in their legs, you should first visit a doctor. During the appointment, the doctor will examine the heel and determine if there is any underlying cause for the symptoms. The doctor will also ask your child to stand on tiptoes and see if any pain is present.
Vitamin D deficiency
Growing pains in the legs can be a sign of vitamin D deficiency. It is a common noninflammatory cause of muscle and joint pain in children. According to a study conducted in Korea, vitamin D levels were lower in children than in healthy individuals. The researchers concluded that vitamin D supplements could help treat growing pains in children.
If left untreated, a deficiency of vitamin D can result in softened bones. These symptoms can occur in children as young as one year of age. Children may even appear knock-kneed. Moreover, a severe vitamin D deficiency may lead to flattening pelvic bones, narrowing the child's birth canal. The bones may become weak and even break, resulting in fractures.
Osgood Schlatter disease
Growing pains in the legs are a common sign of Osgood-Schlatter disease. The pain usually occurs in the front of the knee and is aggravated by bending or engaging in physical activity. Fortunately, Osgood-Schlatter disease is generally not severe and goes away as soon as the growth spurt is over. Boys tend to have Osgood-Schlatter disease more often than girls, but symptoms can occur in either sex. Boys typically begin to experience symptoms between 11 and 12 years of age, and girls usually begin to develop symptoms between thirteen and fourteen years old.
The pain from Osgood-Schlatter disease is most likely due to an abnormal force acting on the growth plate at the top of the knee. This causes microfractures in the growth plate that surrounds the knee. These microfractures cause pain, swelling, and inflammation in the area. Suppose you suspect that your child may have Osgood-Schlatter disease. In that case, it's essential to consult your child's pediatrician, who will be able to prescribe treatment and send you for appropriate imaging studies.
Hypermobility
If you're experiencing growing pains and hypermobility in your legs, you may suffer from joint hypermobility. Although this disorder is most common in children, it can also occur in adults. While there's no way to prevent joint hypermobility, you can take steps to help avoid it.
One of the best ways to deal with hypermobility is to find a physical therapist. A physical therapist can help you identify subluxations and protect your joints. Joint hypermobility is commonly associated with tight muscles, which causes abnormal stresses to joints that are already unstable.
